Navigating change: Iranian presidential election and its implications

Editor's note: Adam O. Erol, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a distinguished columnist and expert on China, the Middle East, and Türkiye foreign policy affairs. His background includes journalism and politics. This article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian has been elected as Iran's new president, defeating hardline conservative Saeed Jalili in a runoff election. Pezeshkian secured more than 16 million votes out of over 30 million votes cast, compared to Jalili's over 13 million. This pivotal event carries far-reaching consequences for Iran and the broader Middle East.

A new beginning: Pezeshkian's vision for Iran

In his first remarks after being declared the winner, Pezeshkian, known for his centrist and reformist stance, emphasized his commitment to serving all Iranians. "The difficult path ahead will not be smooth except with your companionship, empathy, and trust," he stated in a tweet on X. "I extend my hand towards you and swear on my honor that I will not leave you alone on this path. Don't leave me alone."

Pezeshkian, a former heart surgeon and long-time member of the Iranian parliament, is seen as a wildcard candidate who promises "unity and cohesion" and an end to Iran's "isolation" from the world. His victory has sparked celebrations among his supporters, with videos on social media showing young people dancing and waving his campaign's green flag in Tehran and other cities.

One of the primary challenges for Pezeshkian's administration will be managing relations with Western countries, particularly regarding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal. Initially signed in 2015, the agreement aimed to limit Iran's nuclear capabilities in exchange for lifting economic sanctions. However, the deal faced significant setbacks, particularly after the United States' withdrawal in 2018 under President Donald Trump.

Pezeshkian's approach will likely be pivotal in determining the future of the JCPOA. His success in navigating diplomatic negotiations will be crucial for reviving or renegotiating the deal, which could help stabilize Iran's economy and rebuild international trust. The new president must strike a delicate balance between upholding national sovereignty and engaging constructively with Western nations to achieve meaningful progress on the nuclear front.

Addressing domestic economic issues

Iran's economy, severely impacted by international sanctions, mismanagement and the COVID-19 pandemic, will be a major focus for Pezeshkian's administration. High inflation, unemployment and a depreciating currency have led to widespread public dissatisfaction and protests.

To address these challenges, Pezeshkian will need to implement comprehensive economic reforms. It includes improving fiscal management, reducing corruption and attracting foreign investment. Diversifying the economy beyond its oil dependency by fostering growth in technology, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors will be essential for long-term stability. Additionaly, enhancing social welfare programs and addressing income inequality will also be necessary for alleviating public discontent and promoting social cohesion.

Pezeshkian's victory comes when Iranian society is increasingly vocal in demanding social change. Issues such as women's rights, freedom of expression and political participation are at the forefront of public discourse. Pezeshkian's centrist stance positions him to address these demands for reform.

He must balance the aspirations for greater social freedoms and human rights with the realities of Iran's political environment. It may involve relaxing restrictions on media and Internet access, ensuring fair treatment of activists and dissenters, and promoting gender equality in various aspects of public life. Successfully managing these reforms will be crucial for building trust between the government and citizens.

Impact on Middle East geopolitical dynamics

The outcome of the Iranian presidential election will significantly impact the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East.

Pezeshkian's regional strategy will be closely watched. A shift towards diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution could open new avenues for cooperation and peace-building in the Middle East. Conversely, regional conflicts could be exacerbated, contributing to regional instability.

In conclusion, the Iranian presidential election on June 28 marks a critical juncture for Iran and the broader Middle East. As Pezeshkian takes office, the world will be watching how he navigates the complex issues and the future trajectory of the nation under his leadership.

His commitment to serving all Iranians and his promises of empathy and collaboration will be tested as he leads the country through this transformative period. The decisions made in the coming months will shape Iran's domestic and foreign policy for years.

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinions@cgtn.com. Follow @thouse_opinions on Twitter to discover the latest commentaries in the CGTN Opinion Section.)